On Saturday, August 14, 2021, a 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck Haiti about 78 miles south of the capital, Port-au-Prince. Several aftershocks have struck the area, including at least four with a magnitude of 5.0 or higher and remain a threat as reports of significant damage emerge. Cities like Les Cayes, Miragoane, Jeremie were hit very hard. Collapsed buildings and loss of lives are still being evaluated. Homes are destroyed, roads and ports are blocked and telecommunications are down across the country.
There are no significant physical or structural damages in Gris Gris, which is home to our Sister Parish, St. Rose of Lima. Even so, people are scared and afraid to return inside their homes. Fr. Fayant, pastor of St. Rose of Lima, shares the following message with Risen Savior:
Good evening dear friends. Good evening dear brothers and sisters in Minnesota. I am safe, and the people of Gris Gris are safe. I have been to the Church of Gris Gris when the earth shook there. I needed 30 minutes to feel better. I have many faithful who live in the Cayes of Haiti who are victims. They lost their business. Pray for us. Pray for the people of Haiti. –Father Fayant
Please pray for the people of Haiti as well as for our world to respond with compassion and generosity.